San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge may be one of the most recognizable in the world, but the following bridges have their own awe-inspiring features.

World's tallest vehicular bridge. Spanning the valley of the River Tarn, this 1,125-foot cable-stayed bridge is slightly taller than the Eiffel Tower—providing picturesque views not advised for the faint of heart. It took three years to build and opened in 2004. Photo: Eiffage Company of the Viaduct of Millau Management and Development Toll of German Saint

2. The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway

World's longest bridge. The twin, two-lane spans of the 24-mile Causeway near New Orleans are made of prestressed concrete panels supported by more than 9,000 concrete pilings. The spans are 80 feet apart and are connected by seven crossovers that serve as pullover areas for emergencies. Photo: The Greater New Orleans Expressway

3. Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel

World's largest bridge-tunnel complex. Officially named the Lucius J. Kellam Jr. Bridge-Tunnel, this is the only direct link between Virginia's eastern shore and southern Hampton Roads region. The four-lane vehicular tow crossing measures 17.6 miles from shore to shore. It was built under severe weather brought on by hurricanes. Photo: Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel

4. Kawazu-Nanadaru Loop Bridge (Japan)

World's only “rollercoaster bridge.” Possibly the only double-loop bridge in the world, this bridge was built to withstand earthquakes. The 147-foot-tall, 262-foot-diameter double-loop design was used because the mountainside is too steep for any other roadway design. Since opening along Route 414 in 1981, it has become a regional landmark.

5. Gateshead Millennium Bridge (U.K.)

World's first tilting bridge. Powered by eight 55-kilowatt electric motors, the bridge tilts to make way for ships moving along England's River Tyne. Opened to pedestrian and bicycle traffic in 2001, its 98-foot concrete foundations can withstand a collision with a 4,000-ton vessel. It's self-cleaning, too: Litter rolls into special traps each time the bridge opens. Photo: Gateshead Council